Interactive toy

ABSTRACT

Systems, methods, and devices disclosed herein relate to an improved interactive experience. The system can be for delivery of an interactive attraction experience. The system can include a passenger vehicle having a plurality of passenger locations and a content presentation system that can present a virtual portion of the attraction experience viewable from the plurality of passenger locations. The system can include a transceiver that can transmit a trigger signal and at least one processor. The at least one processor can control delivery of the virtual portion of the attraction experience via the content presentation system, detect presence of a non-ride device, and deliver a trigger signal via the transceiver to the non-ride device, the trigger signal linked with the attraction experience.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to toys.

BACKGROUND

Toys are an object possessed by a user that encourage play and encourageimagination. Toys have long been used in many different types of play,including in sport-based play, role-play, and imaginative play. Toyshave incorporated technology to provide different modes of enjoyment andinteraction. For example, some early toys included pull-string poweredmechanisms to create noises, to “talk”, or to move, and more recent toyshave included processing capabilities.

Toys are made in different forms and types and can include a buildingset, character-type toys such as an action figure, a character doll or acharacter doll, an animatronic doll, and a robot. Toys can furtherinclude non-character objects such as, for example, a shopping cart, alawnmower, baby accessories, a cowboy pistol and belt, or the like, andtoys can include costumes, clothing, or clothing accessories. While toysprovide many different play experiences, further developments playobjects, which includes toys and any object used in play, are desired.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Certain embodiments are directed to interactive play objects that caninclude toys. One aspect of the present disclosures relates to a devicefor interactive gameplay. The device includes: a body; a transmitter,embedded in the body, to transmit a self-describing signal for theinteractive device; a receiver that can receive a trigger signal, thetrigger signal transmitted in response to the self-describing signal;and a memory that can store the trigger signal and a plurality ofpre-programmed responses in response to the trigger signal. In someembodiments, the pre-programmed responses include one or more of: anauditory response and a physical response. In some embodiments, thephysical response can include any one of: moving an actuator, powering alight, and activating a motor. The device can include: a speaker totransmit the auditory response; and a processor in communication withthe memory and the receiver. The processor can process a plurality ofinstructions for: identifying the trigger signal; selecting one of theplurality of pre-programmed responses in response to the trigger signal;and executing one of the plurality of pre-programmed responses. In someembodiments, the executing of the one of the plurality of pre-programmedresponses includes at least one of transmitting the auditory responseand performing the physical response.

In some embodiments, the memory can be a writable persistent storagethat can store experience data and a plurality pre-preprogrammedresponses. In some embodiments, the plurality of pre-programmedresponses characterize a behavior of the device. In some embodiments,the processor can update the memory with new experience data. In someembodiments, updating the memory with the new experience data modifiesfuture selection of one of the plurality of pre-programmed responses inresponse to a received trigger signal.

In some embodiments, the device includes at least one sensor forgenerating experience data. In some embodiments, the experience data islinked with a location and a time. In some embodiments, the receiver canreceive new experience data. In some embodiments, the processor canupdate the memory with the new experience data. In some embodiments,updating the memory with the new experience data modifies futureselection of one of the plurality of pre-programmed responses inresponse to a received trigger signal.

In some embodiments, the one of the plurality of pre-programmedresponses is selected based on the trigger signal. In some embodiments,selecting one of the plurality of pre-programmed response includes:identifying a set of potential responses based on the trigger signal;and selecting one of the set of potential responses. In someembodiments, the one of the set of potential responses is randomlyselected.

In some embodiments, executing the one of the plurality ofpre-programmed responses includes: determining an execution parameterfor the executing of the pre-programmed response; and executing the oneof the plurality of pre-programmed responses according to the executionparameter. In some embodiments, the execution parameter can be at leastone of: a delay; a magnitude; and a duration.

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system for delivery ofan attraction experience. The system includes: a passenger vehiclehaving a plurality of passenger locations; a content presentation systemthat can present a virtual portion of the attraction experience viewablefrom the plurality of passenger locations; a transceiver that cantransmit a trigger signal; and at least one processor. The at least oneprocessor can: control delivery of the virtual portion of the attractionexperience via the content presentation system; detect presence of anon-ride device, which non-ride device can be, for example, a toy; anddeliver a trigger signal via the transceiver to the non-ride device. Insome embodiments, the trigger signal can be linked with the attractionexperience.

In some embodiments, the at least one processor can determine anattribute of the non-ride device. In some embodiments, the attribute ofthe non-ride device is based on experience data. In some embodiments,the experience data is linked with a location and a time. In someembodiments, the trigger signal is based, at least in part on theattribute of the non-ride device.

In some embodiments, the at least one processor can modify theattraction experience based on at least one of: the presence of thenon-ride device; and the experience data of the non-ride device. In someembodiments, the trigger signal directs the non-ride device to react toan event in the attraction experience. In some embodiments, the event inthe attraction experience includes the presence of a character. In someembodiments, the trigger signal directs the non-ride device to provideassistance to a possessor of the non-ride device. In some embodiments,providing assistance to the possessor of the non-ride device includes:determining at least one desired action of the possessor of the non-ridedevice; and providing information via the non-ride device facilitatingthe at least one desired action. In some embodiments, the trigger signaldirects a specific reaction by the non-ride device. In some embodiments,the trigger signal directs one of a class of reactions by the non-ridedevice.

One aspect of the present device relates to a method for attractionexperience delivery. The method includes: controlling delivery of avirtual portion of the attraction experience via a content presentationsystem, the virtual portion of the attraction experience perceivablefrom a passenger location within a passenger vehicle; detecting apresence of a non-ride device in the passenger vehicle; delivering atrigger signal to the non-ride device, the trigger signal directing anaction of the non-ride device. In some embodiments, the trigger signalis linked with the attraction experience.

In some embodiments, the method includes determining an attribute of thenon-ride device. In some embodiments, determining the attribute of thenon-ride device includes receiving data from the non-ride device. Insome embodiments, the attribute of the non-ride device is based onexperience data. In some embodiments, the experience data characterizesexperiences of the non-ride device and is location linked and timelinked. In some embodiments, the trigger signal is based, at least inpart on the attribute of the non-ride device.

In some embodiments, the method includes modifying the attractionexperience based on at least one of: the presence of the non-ridedevice; and the experience data of the non-ride device. In someembodiments, the trigger signal directs the non-ride device to react toan event in the attraction experience. In some embodiments, the event inthe attraction experience includes the presence of a character. In someembodiments, the character can be a virtual character.

In some embodiments, the trigger signal directs the non-ride device toprovide assistance to a possessor of the non-ride device. In someembodiments, providing assistance to the possessor of the non-ridedevice includes: determining at least one desired action of thepossessor of the non-ride device; and providing information via thenon-ride device facilitating the at least one desired action. In someembodiments, the trigger signal directs a specific reaction by thenon-ride device. In some embodiments, the trigger signal directs one ofa class of reactions by the non-ride device.

A better understanding of the nature and advantages of embodiments ofthe present disclosure may be gained with reference to the followingdetailed description and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of an interactiveshow system.

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of a simulationenvironment.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary depiction of one embodiment of a non-ride device.

FIG. 4. is a functional block diagram depicting components of oneembodiment of a non-ride device.

FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram for an exemplary method

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of a process forattraction experience delivery.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of a process forinteractive gameplay by a non-ride device.

FIG. 8 is a depiction of one embodiment of a computer system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The ensuing description provides illustrative embodiment(s) only and isnot intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of thedisclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the illustrativeembodiment(s) will provide those skilled in the art with an enablingdescription for implementing a preferred exemplary embodiment. It isunderstood that various changes can be made in the function andarrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope asset forth in the appended claims.

I. Introduction

Developing technologies in simulation present many opportunities forfuture creation of attractions that provide a unique and customizedexperience for ride passengers and/or for show viewers. As used herein,an attraction includes an amusement ride, an interaction or event suchas an interaction with one or several characters, and/or a show. In someembodiments, these attractions can be within an attraction park and insome embodiments, these attractions can be in an amusement park, athemed store, a theater, and/or a restaurant such as a themedrestaurant. While these technologies provide opportunities for futureattractions, they also present challenges for the generation of contentbased on passenger responses to the attraction. For example, users mayhave play objects, which can include toys, relevant to the attraction,but the integration of these objects into the attraction can beproblematic.

These and other problems can be overcome through the use of systems,devices, and methods as disclosed herein. For example, a play object,also referred to herein as a “non-ride device” when taken on anattraction, can include features enabling communication with theattraction, and the attraction may include features enabling detectionof one or several non-ride devices in viewing area such as, for example,in a passenger vehicle and communication with some or all of these oneor several non-ride devices. As used herein, a play object refers to anyobject that can be used to enhance participation or sense of embodimentin a themed attraction or environment. The play object can include anyobject that is used in play and can include a toy, a costume, aninsignia, any worn or carried object, clothing, and/or a clothingaccessory. Such play objects may be tokenized and/or may includefeatures allowing communication with the play object and computer-basedidentification of the play object. As used herein, a “non-ride device”refers to a device owned, controlled and/or possessed by a passenger ofthe attraction and/or by a viewer of an attraction, and that is presentat the attraction and/or is brought on to and removed from theattraction by the passenger. The non-ride device can include a playobject such as a toy. This toy can include a doll including an actionfigure or a character doll, a stuffed animal, an animatronic doll, or arobot.

The attraction can be modified based on the detection of one or severalnon-ride devices in the passenger vehicle and/or in the viewing areaand/or based on one or several attributes of these one or severalnon-ride devices. In some embodiments, characters, such as virtualcharacters, in the attraction can interact with one or several of theone or several non-ride devices. The attraction can further generate andsend one or several trigger signals which can trigger a response of thenon-ride device. This response can include, interaction with thecharacter in the attraction, a response to an event in the attraction,assistance to a passengers, such as the owner, controller, and/orpossessor of the non-ride device. This assistance can include providinginformation relating to one or several coming events and/or informationrelating to how to provide a desired response to one or several events.In some embodiments, this assistance can include the non-ride deviceproviding and/or appearing to provide one or several inputs to controlsof the attraction and/or taking one or several actions responsive to theattraction.

The trigger signals can be customized based on one or several attributesof the non-ride device. In some embodiments, for example, each non-ridedevice can include a memory containing experience data. This experiencedata can be accumulated by the non-ride device based on the interactionof the non-ride device with one or several other devices including oneor several non-ride devices, the presence of the non-ride device at alocation and/or at a location at a time, the previous presence of thenon-ride device on one or several attractions, or the like. In someembodiments, the experience data can be generated by the non-ride devicevia one or several sensors of the non-ride device, and in someembodiments, the non-ride device can receive communications containingthe experience data of the non-ride device. For example, if the non-ridedevice is taken into a store, the experience device could be generatedby sensors of the non-ride device, or the experience data could begenerated based on information received by communication components ofthe non-ride device from communication components transmittinginformation relating to one or several events in the store.

In some embodiments, upon receiving a trigger signal, a processor of thenon-ride device can control the non-ride device to provide a desiredaction and/or reaction. In some embodiments, the trigger signal canspecify an action and/or reaction, and the processor of the non-ridedevice can control the non-ride device to provide this action and/orreaction. In some embodiments, the trigger signal can specify a class ofactions. Upon receipt of a trigger signal specifying a class of actions,the non-ride device can select one of the class of actions, and theprocessor of the non-ride device can control the non-ride deviceaccording to the selected one of the class of actions.

II. Interactive Show System

With reference now to FIG. 1 a schematic illustration of one embodimentof an interactive show system 100 is shown. The system 100 can be usedto provide an attraction experience such as with an attraction. Theattraction can include an amusement ride, a show, an interactive show, aconcert, or the like. The system 100 can be used to provide anattraction experience that is interactive with one or several non-ridedevices, or to provide interactive gameplay. The system 100 can includea processor 102. The processor 102 can be any computing and/orprocessing device including, for example, one or several laptops,personal computers, tablets, smartphones, servers, mainframe computers,processors, or the like. The processor 102 can be configured to receiveinputs from one or several other components of the system 100, toprocess the inputs according to one or several stored instructions, andto provide outputs to control the operation of one or several of theother components of the system 100.

In some embodiments, the processor 102 can include a game engine thatcan include a rendering engine. The game engine and the rendering enginecan together, or independently develop and/or progress the narrative ofthe simulation and/or the generate images corresponding to thatnarrative. The narrative comprises a sequence of occurrences and/oractions that are presentable, and in some embodiments are sequentiallypresentable, to an attraction passenger or to a show viewer. Amodification to the narrative can include a change to all or to aportion of the narrative. Thus, in some embodiments, a modification tothe narrative can include the addition of one, some, or all events, theexclusion of one, some, or all events, or the change of an aspect ofone, some, or all events. Similarly, a modification to the narrative caninclude a change to a character or a character action in the narrative.Thus, a change in a line of a character in the narrative is amodification of the narrative.

In some embodiments, the narrative can take place in a virtual world. Asused herein, the “virtual world” is a computer-based simulationenvironment generated by the game engine and/or rendering engine andfrom which the images, events, video, storylines, sounds, effects, orthe like of the narrative are generated. In some embodiments, thisvirtual world can be presented to one or several passengers and/orviewers via a display such as provided via one or several projectors,screens, monitors, and/or speakers, and in some embodiments, the virtualworld can be presented via the generation and/or delivery of one orseveral control signals which control action of one or several animatedfigures, animated props, or show action equipment, and in someembodiments, the virtual world can be presented via a combination ofanimatronic and display. In some embodiments, the rendering engine cangenerate one or several events that can be, in part, based upon userinputs provided to the system 100. These events can include, forexample, one or several accelerations, decelerations, changes indirection, interaction with one or several objects or characters, or thelike.

In some embodiments, the processor 102 can include a motion control. Themotion control can control motion of a simulation vehicle 108—alsoreferred to herein as a passenger vehicle 108, passenger conveyance 108,or attraction environment 108—via control of a motion base 110 that isconnected to the simulation vehicle 108 and/or upon which or on whichthe simulation vehicle is mounted. In embodiments in which theinteractive system provides all or portions of an attraction, thesimulation vehicle 108 can hold passengers of that attraction. Inembodiments in which the interactive system provides all or portions ofa show, the simulation vehicle 108 can be the viewing area from whichthe show can be observed. Thus, in embodiments in which the show isperformed to one or several passersby on a walkway, sidewalk, path, orstreet, the viewing area can be portions of the walkway, sidewalk, path,or street. The motion control can control motion of the simulationvehicle according to one or several inputs received from the user and/orone or several game events.

The system 100 can include memory 104. The memory 104 can represent oneor more storage media and/or memories for storing data, including readonly memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, corememory, magnetic disk storage mediums, optical storage mediums, flashmemory devices and/or other machine readable mediums for storinginformation. The term “machine-readable medium” includes, but is notlimited to portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices,and/or various other storage mediums capable of storing that contain orcarry instruction(s) and/or data. The memory 104 can be an integral partof the processor 102 and/or can be separate from the processor 102. Inembodiments in which the memory 104 is separate from the processor 102,the memory 104 and the processor 102 can be communicatingly linked via,for example, communications network 130. In some embodiments, thecommunications network 130 can comprise any wired or wirelesscommunication connection between the components of the simulation system100.

The memory 104 can include software code and/or instructions fordirecting the operation of the processor 102 and/or can include one orseveral databases 106 containing information used by the processor 102and/or generated by the processor 102.

The memory 104 can include a narrative/imagery database 106-A. Thenarrative/imagery database 106-A stores narrative and image data. Thisnarrative and/or image data can define and/or bound the virtual world.This narrative and image data can include information and/or datarelating to the narrative and the imagery generated as part of thenarrative. Specifically, the narrative and image data is data andinformation that is used to generate the narrative and the imageryand/or sound in the narrative. This can include identification of one orseveral: objects; characters; effects; or things existing within thenarrative, and data or databases defining these one or several: objects;characters; effects; or things. This data or databases defining the oneor several: objects; characters; effects; or things can identifyattributes of the one or several objects, characters, effects, orthings, which attributes can define a size, a speed, sound, movementcharacteristics, illumination characteristics, or the like. Thenarrative database 106-A can further include information regardingevents in the narrative and the sequencing of those events.

The memory 104 can include a vehicle database 106-B. The vehicle and/oractuator system database 106-B can include data relating to thesimulation vehicle and/or the actuator system. In some embodiments, thisdatabase 106-B can include information relating to features of thesimulation vehicle and/or relating to the control of the simulationvehicle and/or the interaction with user control features located on thesimulation vehicle. In some embodiments, for example, the simulationvehicle can move in response to user inputs to the user control featuresand/or according to the narrative of the simulation or to events in thenarrative of the simulation. The vehicle database 106-B can include dataidentifying one or several features of the simulation vehicle thatenable the movement of the simulation vehicle. These features caninclude, for example, one or several motors, servo motors, pneumatic,electric, or hydraulic components, any motion causing component, or thelike.

The memory 104 can include a trigger database 106-C. The triggerdatabase 106-C can include information relating to one or severaltrigger signals. In some embodiments, the information relating to one orseveral trigger signals can comprise a set of information for eachtrigger signal, which information can direct a recipient non-ride deviceto take an action and/or to take an action from a class of actions. Insome embodiments, the information relating to one or several triggersignal scan further relate to one or several events in the narrativeand/or to one or several non-ride devices or experience data of non-ridedevices. In some embodiments, for example, when an event occurs in thesimulation and/or when an event in the simulation is approaching, theprocessor 102 can identify one or several potential trigger signalsrelevant to the event. The processor 102 can further identify one orseveral non-ride devices in the passenger vehicle and/or the experiencedata of each of these one or several non-ride devices. The processor 102can then select one or several trigger signals based on the present oneor several non-ride devices and/or the experience data of the presentone or several non-ride devices.

The memory 104 can include a non-ride device database 106-D. Thenon-ride device database 106-D can include information relating tonon-ride devices detected in the passenger vehicle and/or experiencedata of the one or several non-ride devices detected in the passengervehicle. In some embodiments, this information can be stored until thecompletion of the simulation and/or the completion of the attraction.This information in the non-ride device database 106-D can be receivedfrom the non-ride devices in the passenger vehicle.

The system 100 can include one or several simulation vehicles 108. Thesimulation vehicle 108 can provide hardware corresponding to some or allof the features of the virtual conveyance in which the passenger islocated in the gaming/simulation portion of the attraction experience.In some embodiments of the attraction, the simulation vehicle 108 cantransport passengers from a starting position to a termination positon,which starting position can be the location at which passengers enterthe simulation vehicle 108 and which termination position can be thelocation at which the passengers exit the simulation vehicle 108. Insome embodiments, the starting position and the termination position canbe co-located.

The simulation vehicle 108 can contain one or several passengers in, forone or several passenger locations 111. Each of these passengerlocations 111 can include, for example, the location or one or severalpassengers, a seat, a restraint system, or the like. The simulationvehicle 108 and/or the components thereof can be communicatinglyconnected with the processor 102. This communication connection canallow the providing of information to the simulation vehicle 108, whichinformation can control operation of all or portions of the simulationvehicle 108, and which communicating connection can allow the receipt ofinformation from the simulation vehicle 108 by the server 102, whichinformation can include one or several user inputs at the simulationvehicle 108. The simulation vehicle 108 can, in some embodiments, bemovable according to the narrative and/or according to one or severalevents in the narrative to, in combination with generated imagery,create the sensation of movement for the passengers. In someembodiments, each of the simulation vehicles 108 can be mounted to, on,and/or upon a motion base 110, also referred to herein as the actuatorsystem. The motion base 110 can move the simulation vehicle 108 that ismounted to, on, and/or upon the motion base 110. The motion base 110 caninclude one or several: motors; servo motors; pneumatic components;hydraulic components; electric components; any motion causing component;or the like.

The simulation vehicle 108 can include controls 109 through which one orseveral user inputs can be received. In some embodiments, these controlscan include one or several: wheels; levers; buttons; control sticks;pedals; switches; slides; and knobs. In some embodiments, the simulationvehicle 108 can move and/or be configured to move according to controlsignals received from the processor 102 and/or the user controlfeatures.

The system 100 can communicate with one or several non-ride devices 112.In some embodiments each of non-ride devices 112 can comprise a toy suchas, a doll including an action figure or a character doll, a stuffedanimal, an animatronic doll, or a robot. In some embodiments, the system100 can communicate with these one or several non-ride devices 112 whenthe one or several non-ride devices are in the simulation vehicle 108.

The system 100 can include a non-ride device detection system 114. Thenon-ride device detection system 114 can detect the presence of anon-ride device in the passenger vehicle 108. In some embodiments, thenon-ride device detection system 114 can detect the presence of one orseveral non-ride devices via one or several communications protocols. Insome embodiments, for example, the non-ride device detection system 114can comprise one or several software modules or communication protocolsexecuted using the non-ride device communication system 118 discussedbelow.

The system 100 can include a content presentation system 116 which caninclude an audio presentation system, one or several animatronicpresentation systems, and/or a video presentation system. The contentpresentation system 116 can provide or present content to passengers ofthe passenger vehicle 108 including passengers of the attraction. Thecontent presentation system 116 can be communicatingly connected withthe processor 102 and can comprise one or several features configured togenerate images according to one or several control signals receivedfrom the processor 102.

The content presentation system 116 can include hardware componentsconfigured to deliver content to the passengers of the simulationvehicles 108. The components of the content presentation system 116 caninclude, for example, one or several: speakers; sound generators;displays; screens; monitors; projectors; illuminators; speakers; lasers;fans; or heaters. In some embodiments, each simulation vehicle 108 caninclude a unique content presentation system 116 and in someembodiments, the content presentation system 116 can be non-unique tosome or all of the simulation vehicles 108. In some embodiments in whichthe simulation vehicle 108 includes unique content presentation system116, the content presentation system 116 can be a part of the simulationvehicle 108, can be attached to the simulation vehicle 108, and/or canmove with the simulation vehicle 108 from the starting point to thetermination point.

The content presentation system 116 can provide and/or present audiocontent via an audio presentation system. The audio presentation systemcan include, for example, an amplifier such as one or several of: apre-amplifier; a power amplifier; a phono pre-amplifier; a subwooferamplifier; and an integrated amplifier, one or several speakers such asone or several of: a subwoofer; a tweeter; and a mid-range speaker, amixing engine, an equalizer, a speaker processor, and/or a scheduler.The content presentation system 116 can provide and/or present videocontent via the video presentation system. The video presentation systemcan include one or several: screens; displays; monitors; projectors;lasers; and/or light sources.

The system 100 can include a non-ride device communication system 118.The non-ride device communication system 118 can comprise one or severalfeatures for communication with one or several non-ride devices in thepassenger vehicle 108. These one or several features can include, forexample, an antenna, a transceiver, a transmitter, a receiver, or thelike. The receiver and transceiver can receive information at thenon-ride device 112 via, in some embodiment, electromagneticcommunication including, for example, radio frequency communication,infrared communication, or visible light communication. In someembodiments, the transceiver and/or the transmitter can send informationfrom the non-ride device 112 via, in some embodiments, electromagneticcommunication including, for example, radio frequency communication,infrared communication, or visible light communication. In someembodiments, these non-ride device communication system 118 cancommunicate with the non-ride device 112 via any desired wirelesscommunication regime, including, for example, via electromagnetic wavessuch as, for example, via radio frequency communication.

With reference to FIG. 2, a schematic illustration of a simulationenvironment 200 is shown. The simulation environment 200 can include allor portions of the system 100. Specifically, as seen in FIG. 2, thesimulation environment 200 includes the simulation vehicle 108, themotion base 110, and the user controls 109. The simulation vehicle 108shown in FIG. 2, further includes a body 202 including windows 204 andopaque structural features 206 such as, for example, a roof, pillars,posts, and/or window frames or framing. The simulation vehicle 108 canfurther include a passenger area 208 that can include the passengerlocations 111 including, for example, one or several seats, restraints,or the like. The simulation vehicle 108 can include one or severalaccessory features 210.

The simulation environment 200 can include the content presentationsystem 116. The content presentation system 116 can include a screen 212and at least one projector 214. The screen 212 can comprise a variety ofshapes and sizes and can be made from a variety of materials. In someembodiments, the screen 212 can be flat, and in some embodiments, thescreen 212 can be angled, curved, domed, or the like. In someembodiments, the screen 212 is curved and/or domed to extend around allor portions of the simulation vehicle 108, and specifically is curvedand/or domed to extend around portions of the simulation vehicle 108 sothat a passenger looking out of the simulation vehicle 108 sees thescreen.

One or several projectors 214 can project images onto the screen 212.These projectors 214 can be located on the same side of the screen 212as the simulation vehicle 108 or on the opposite side of the screen 212as the simulation vehicle. The projectors 214 can be controlled by theprocessor 102.

The simulation environment 200 can include one or several detectionfeatures 220 and/or one or several communications features 222. Thesedetection features 220 and/or communication features 222 can include,for example, one or several antennas. The one or several detectionfeatures 220 and/or one or several communications features 222 cancommunication with one or several non-ride devices 112 in the passengervehicle 108.

III. Non-Ride Device

With reference to FIG. 3, a schematic illustration of one embodiment ofa non-ride device 112 is shown. The non-ride device 112 can comprise aplay object that can be a toy such as, a doll including an action figureor a character doll, an insignia, a badge, a stuffed animal, ananimatronic doll, or a robot. The non-ride device 112 can include a bodythat can house one or several component and/or to which one or severalcomponents can be connected. In some embodiments, the non-ride device112 can include one or several communication features which can enablethe non-ride device 112 to communicate with other components of thesystem 100. In some embodiments, the communication features can include,for example, a transceiver, a transmitter 304, and/or a receiver 306. Insome embodiments, the functions of the transmitter 304 and the receiver306 can be combined in a transceiver. The transmitter 304 can sendinformation from the non-ride device 112, the information including, forexample, information identifying the non-ride device 112, and/orinformation relating to experience data of the non-ride device 112. Insome embodiments, the transmitter 304 can be embedded within the body302 of the non-ride device 112 and can transmit one or severalself-describing signals for the non-ride device 112, also referred toherein as the interactive device 112. The receiver 306 can receiveinformation from other components of the system 100, from othercomponents of a venue such as an amusement park, theater, or stage,and/or from other non-ride devices 112. Specifically, the receiver canreceive one or several trigger signals from the attraction, andspecifically from the non-ride device communication system 118. In someembodiments, the non-ride device communication system 118 can deliverthe trigger signal in response to receipt of the self-describing signal.In some embodiments, the receiver 306 can receive new experience data.This new experience data can be received from other non-ride devices 112and/or from one or several modules configured to communicate with thenon-ride device 112. In some embodiments, the transmitter 304, thereceiver 306, and/or the transceiver can send and/or receive informationvia electromagnetic communication including, for example, radiofrequency communication, infrared communication, or visible lightcommunication.

The non-ride device 112 can include output features wherewith thenon-ride device 112 can output information to the possessor of thenon-ride device 112. These features can include, for example, one orseveral speakers 308, one or several lights, one or several displays,and/or one or several screens. The non-ride device 112 can furtherinclude one or several sensors 310. The sensors 310 can sense attributesof the environment surrounding the non-ride device 112. These sensorscan include, for example, one or several cameras, microphones,accelerometers, thermometers, and/or location features such as one orseveral GPS antennas. In some embodiments, the one or several sensors310 can generate experience data, which experience data can, in someembodiments, be linked with a location and/or a time.

The non-ride device 112 can further include one or several movementfeatures 312. These features 312 can be controlled by the non-ridedevice 112 to move the non-ride device 112 and/or to take some action.In some embodiments, these movement features 312 can comprise one orseveral appendages such as, for example, one and/or several arms orlegs. These arms and/or legs can be controlled by the non-ride device112 to move the non-ride device 112 and/or can be controlled to performa desired movement or to take a desired action.

With reference now to FIG. 4, one embodiment of a functional blockdiagram depicting components of the non-ride device 112 is shown. Thecomponents of the non-ride device 112 can be communicatingly coupledwith each other. As seen in FIG. 4, the non-ride device 112 can includethe transmitter 304, the receiver 306, the speaker 308, and/or thesensor 310. In some embodiments, the non-ride device 112 can furtherinclude a device processor 350 that can receive information from one orseveral components of the non-ride device 112 and provide controlsignals to one or several components of the non-ride device 112.

The non-ride device 112 can further include device memory 352. Thedevice memory 352 can comprise volatile and/or non-volatile memory. Thedevice memory can comprise one or several databases and can store one orseveral received trigger signals and/or a plurality of pre-programmedresponses to one or several received trigger signals. In someembodiments, the device memory 352 can be updated, and/or the device 112can be programmed by the user. In some embodiments, for example, theuser may program the device 112 and/or update the device memory 352, andspecifically update and/or change the plurality of pre-programmedresponses in the device memory 352. In some embodiments, for example,this can be performed via the inserting of a programming device, such asa chip into the device 112. The device 112 can read the chip andretrieve information from the chip to reprogram the device 112 and/or toupdate the device memory 352. In some embodiments, the user mayreprogram the device 112 by replacing all or portions of the memory, andspecifically by removing and/or replacing all or portions of the memoryof the device 112. In some embodiments, for example, the user mayprogram and/or reprogram the device 112 such that the device has one orseveral desired attributes such as affiliations. In some embodiments,for example, the device 112 can be programmed to affiliate with one orseveral evil characters, and in some embodiments, the device 112 can beprogrammed to affiliate with one or several good characters. In someembodiments, this affiliation can be manifested through the programmingand in the responses of the device 112 to one or several events or tothe presence of one or several characters, which events or charactersmay be in the attraction.

In some embodiments, some or all of the pre-programmed responses can beorganized into one or several classes of responses. In some embodiments,for example, a trigger signal may be linked with a single pre-programmedresponse, and in some embodiments, a trigger signal may be linked with aclass of pre-programmed responses, which class of pre-programmedresponses may comprise a plurality of pre-programmed responses. In someembodiments in which multiple non-ride devices 112 are in a singlepassenger vehicle 108, a trigger signal associated with a class ofpre-programmed responses can prevent a large number, or all of thenon-ride devices from having the same response to the trigger signal. Insome embodiments, for example, when a non-ride device receives a triggersignal associated with a class of pre-programmed responses, one of theplurality of pre-programmed responses from the class of pre-programmedresponses can be selected by each of the non-ride devices. In someembodiments, each non-ride device can randomly select the one of theplurality of pre-programmed responses, thereby decreasing the likelihoodof multiple of the non-ride devices having the same response. In someembodiments, the non-ride devices 112 in the passenger vehicle 108 cancommunicate with each other to ensure that each of the non-ride devices112 selects a unique one of the plurality of pre-programmed responsesand/or that less than a maximum number of non-ride devices 112 selectthe same one of the plurality of pre-programmed responses.

In some embodiments, the device memory 352 can comprise a writablepersistent storage that can store experience data and a pluralitypre-preprogrammed responses. This plurality of pre-programmed responsescharacterize a behavior of the device 112. In some embodiments, thedevice processor 350 can update the device memory 352 with newexperience data. The updating of the device memory 352 with the newexperience data can modify future selection of one of the plurality ofpre-programmed responses in response to a received trigger signal.Specifically, links between trigger signals and responses in the devicememory 352 can be modified based on the experience data stored in thedevice memory 352. Thus, in some embodiments, a device 112 may beinitially programmed to be friendly towards pirate characters, but afterthe generation of experience data, and the modification of the devicememory 352 with this experience data, the device 112 may fear piratecharacters.

In some embodiments, the device memory 352 can include one or severalexecution parameters. In some embodiments, the execution parameter canaffect execution of one or several of the pre-programmed responses. Insome embodiments, the execution parameter can affect a speed with whichthe pre-programmed response is executed, the duration of execution forthe pre-programmed response, and/or the magnitude of execution of thepre-programmed response. In some embodiments, the execution parametercan identify at least one of: a delay for execution; a duration ofexecution; and a magnitude, such as a volume, of execution.

These pre-programmed responses can include one or more of: an auditoryresponse; and a physical response. In some embodiments, the physicalresponse can include at least one of: moving an actuator, powering alight, moving and/or manipulating an appendage, and/or activating amotor. In some embodiments, the processor 350 can provide one or severalcontrol signals based on the responses contained in the memory and/orbased on one or several received trigger signals. In some embodiments,these one or several control signals can cause, for example, the speaker308 to deliver and/or transmit an auditory response, can cause the oneor several lights, one or several displays, and/or one or severalscreens to deliver a visual response, and/or cause one or severalactuators 354 and/or motors to deliver a physical response via, forexample, moving one or several movement features 312 of the device 112.

The device 112 can include one or several actuators 354. The one orseveral actuators 354, which actuators 354 can be, for example, one orseveral motors, hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders, electroactive polymer,and/or piezoelectric actuators. The one or several actuators 354 cancontrol movement of the one or several movement features 312 of thedevice 112.

IV. Interactive Experience Delivery

With reference now to FIG. 5, a functional block diagram of modules 500for interactive experience delivery is shown. These modules 500 can behardware modules and/or software modules. In some embodiments, thesemodules 500 can be wholly or partially located on or in the processor102. These modules include a communication module 502. The communicationmodule 502 interacts with the non-ride device communication system 118and/or the non-ride device detection system 114 to detect the presenceof one or several non-ride devices 112 in the passenger vehicle 108, toreceive data from the non-ride device 112, and/or to send one or severaltrigger signals or data to the non-ride device 112.

A gaming engine 504, also referred to herein as a “story engine” or asan “experience engine,” can control the generation and/or presentationof the narrative of the attraction experience to a passenger of thesimulation vehicle 108 and/or to a viewer of the attraction. Thisgeneration and/or presentation of the narrative can be based on thevirtual world in which the attraction experience takes place and/or caninclude the generation of the virtual world in which the attractionexperience takes place. The generation and/or presentation of thenarrative can include the identification of game events that can beassociated with a trigger signals. In some embodiments, these events caninclude, for example, which can include an acceleration, a deceleration,a change in direction of travel, a collision with an object, anexplosion, and/or an appearance of a character. The generation and/orpresentation of the narrative of the attraction experience can includegeneration of signals to control the content presentation system 116 togenerate imagery and/or sound corresponding to one or several events inthe narrative of the attraction experience.

In some embodiments, the experience engine 504 can receive informationindicating the presence of one or several non-ride devices 112 in thepassenger vehicle 108 and/or can receive information indicating one orseveral attributes of one or several non-ride devices in the passengervehicle 108. The experience engine 504 can, based on this receivedinformation, modify all or portions of the narrative. In someembodiments, the modification can include generating and/or selectingone or several trigger signals to cause desired actions of the one orseveral non-ride devices 112 to contribute to the narrative. In someembodiments, for example, a character within the narrative may interactwith the non-ride device, and trigger signals can be generated to causereaction of the non-ride device to these interactions.

The input module 506 can communicate with the controls 109 of thesimulation vehicle 108 to receive electrical signals corresponding touser inputs provided via the controls 109. The input module 506 canoutput information relating to the user inputs to an experience engine504. In some embodiments, based on the received user inputs, theexperience engine 504 can identify a response of the simulation vehicle108 to the user inputs and/or the direct or indirect effects of the userinputs on the simulation vehicle 108. In some embodiments, and by way ofexample, a direct effect includes when a user input indicates a turn ofthe simulation vehicle 108, and an indirect effect includes when a userinputs causes the explosion of an object within the gaming/simulationportion of the attraction experience, which explosion createsshock-waves buffeting the simulation vehicle 108. The experience enginecan further track the passenger's and/or simulation vehicle's 108progression through the attraction experience.

In some embodiments, and based on inputs received from the input module506, a skill level of one or several passengers can be determined. Insome embodiments, if it is determined that a passenger has a skill levelbelow a threshold level, the experience engine 504 can generate one orseveral trigger signals in association with events, which triggersignals cause the non-ride device 112 to provide assistance to thispassenger. In some embodiments, for example, the trigger signal cancause the non-ride device to take an action to provide one or severalinputs to the passenger vehicle 108 to cause a desired effect or actionin the virtual world, and in some embodiments, the trigger signal cancause the non-ride device to take an action to provide guidance to thepassenger to providing one or several inputs to the passenger vehicle108 to cause a desired effect or action in the virtual world.

With reference now to FIG. 6, a flowchart illustrating one embodiment ofa process 600 for attraction experience delivery is shown. The process600 can be performed by all or portions of the system 100 and/or themodules 500 of FIG. 5. The process 600 can begin at block 602, whereinone or several passengers are loaded into the simulation vehicle 108and/or enter into the simulation vehicle 108. In some embodiments, thesimulation vehicle 108 can be the location(s) from which the show, whichin some embodiments is a show that is not part of an amusement ride, isviewable. At block 604 the presence of one or several non-ride devices112 in the simulation vehicle 108 is detected. In some embodiments, thisdetection can be performed during the loading of block 602 or subsequentto the loading of block 602. In some embodiments, step 604 can beperformed independent of block 602.

At block 606 one or several attributes of each of the one or severalnon-ride devices detected in the passenger vehicle 108 can bedetermined. In some embodiments, this determination can be performed viacommunication with the non-ride device 112, and specifically via receiptof data from the non-ride device, which data characterizes these one orseveral attributes of the non-ride device. In some embodiments, thisdata can comprise experience data of the non-ride device 112 and/or canbe derived from the experience data of the non-ride device 112. Thisexperience data can characterize one or several experiences of thenon-ride device 112, and in some embodiments, the experience data can belocation linked and/or time linked.

At block 608, the narrative is generated. In some embodiments, this caninclude the generation and/or retrieval of content for presenting topassengers of the passenger vehicle 108. As indicated in block 610, thenarrative can be modified based on the presence of one or severalnon-ride devices in the passenger vehicle 108 and/or based on theattributes of one, some, or all of the non-ride devices 112 in thepassenger vehicle 108. In some embodiments, the narrative can bemodified based on a combination of non-ride devices 112 present in thepassenger vehicle 108. In such an embodiment, the modification can bespecific to the combination of non-ride devices 112 present in thepassenger vehicle 108. In some embodiments, the modifying of thenarrative can include the inputting of information indicating thepresence of the one or several non-ride devices 112 into the experienceengine 504 and inputting information identifying at least one attributeof each of the one or several non-ride devices 112 into the experienceengine 504. The experience engine 504 can generate the modifiednarrative based on, at least in part, these received inputs. In someembodiments, modifying the narrative can cause modification of theattraction experience of passengers in the passenger vehicle 108.

At block 612, the narrative is delivered. In some embodiments, this caninclude the controlling of delivery of a virtual portion of theattraction experience via a content presentation system 116. In someembodiments, the virtual portion of the attraction experience can beperceivable from a passenger location 111 within the passenger vehicle108. At decision step 614, it is determined if the narrative iscomplete. If it is determined that the narrative is incomplete, then theprocess 600 can return to 608 and the generation, modification, and/ordelivery of the narrative can continue. If it is determined that thenarrative is complete, which completion can correspond to the end of theattraction, then the process 600 proceeds to block 624, wherein thenon-ride database is updated. In some embodiments, this can include thedeletion of information relating to the presence of one, some, or all ofthe non-ride devices in the passenger vehicle 108.

At block 616 one or several trigger events can be generated. In someembodiments, step 616 can be performed simultaneous with and/or afterany of steps 608-612. In some embodiments, a trigger event is an eventhaving an associated and/or desired action and/or reaction of one orseveral non-ride devices 112 in the passenger vehicle 108.

At block 618 one or several trigger signals are generated. In someembodiments, these trigger signals can be generated in association withthe trigger events identified in block 616. In some embodiments, thestep of block 618 can include the retrieval of one or several triggersignals from the 106-C. These trigger signals can be generated and/orselected based, at least in part on the attribute of the non-ride device112.

In some embodiments, some or all of the identified trigger signals candirect one or several of the non-ride devices 112 in the passengervehicle 108 to react to an event in the narrative. In some embodiments,this event can include the presence of a character, which character canbe a virtual character, or in other words, a character in the virtualworld and depicted via the content presentation system 116.

In some embodiments, the trigger signal directs the non-ride device 112to provide assistance to a possessor of the non-ride device 112. In someembodiments, providing assistance to the possessor of the non-ridedevice 112 can include: determining at least one desired action of thepossessor of the non-ride device 112; and providing information via thenon-ride device 112 facilitating the at least one desired action. Insome embodiments, the trigger signal directs a specific reaction by thenon-ride device 112, and in some embodiments, the trigger signal directsone of a class of reactions by the non-ride device 112.

At block 620, the trigger signal is delivered. In some embodiments, thetrigger signal can be delivered via the non-ride device communicationsystem 118. At block 622, an action confirmation can be received, whichaction confirmation can confirm the receipt of the trigger signal, andthe execution of the action associated with the trigger signal. In someembodiments, delivery of one or several future trigger signals can bemodified based on receipt of action confirmation. In some embodiments,for example, if no action confirmation is received, future triggersignals may not be generated and/or delivered. In some embodiments,receipt of one or several action confirmations may result in thegeneration and delivery of an increased number of trigger signals.

With reference now to FIG. 7, a flowchart illustrating one embodiment ofa process 700 for interactive gameplay by a non-ride device 112 isshown. The process 700 can be performed by the non-ride device 112 andbegins at block 702, wherein experience data is generated and/orreceived. In some embodiments, the experience data can be generated bysensors of the non-ride device 112, and/or in some embodiments, theexperience data can be received by the receiver 306 of the non-ridedevice 112.

At block 704, device memory is updated based on the experience datanewly received and/or generated in block 702. In some embodiments, thisupdating can be performed by the device processor 350. In someembodiments, this updating of the device memory with the new experiencedata can modify future selection of one of the plurality ofpre-programmed responses in response to a received trigger signal.

At block 706, the non-ride device 112 communicates with the non-ridedevice communication system 118. In some embodiments, this canfacilitate detection of the presence of the non-ride device 112 in thepassenger vehicle 108 and/or can provide information from the non-ridedevice 112 to the non-ride device communication system 118.

At block 708, a trigger signal is received and identified. In someembodiments, the identification and/or receipt of the trigger signal caninclude extracting information from the trigger signal. At block 710 apre-programmed response to the received trigger signal is selected. Insome embodiments, this can include selecting one of the plurality ofpre-programmed responses in response to the trigger signal. In someembodiments, the one of the plurality of pre-programmed responses isselected based on the trigger signal. In some embodiments, selecting oneof the plurality of pre-programmed response can include: identifying aset of potential responses based on the trigger signal; and selectingone of the set of potential responses. In some embodiments, thisresponse can be randomly selected, and in some embodiments, thisresponse can be selected via communication with one or several othernon-ride devices 112 in the passenger vehicle.

At block 712, the selected pre-programmed response is executed. In someembodiments, executing the one of the plurality of pre-programmedresponses includes: determining an execution parameter for the executingof the pre-programmed response; and executing the one of the pluralityof pre-programmed responses according to the execution parameter. Insome embodiments, this execution parameter can identify a delay, amagnitude, and/or a duration of the response.

At block 714, an action confirmation is generated and provided to thenon-ride device communication system 118 to indicate completion ofexecution of the non-ride response, and in block 716, the experiencedata is updated.

It should be appreciated that the specific steps illustrated in in theabove figures provide particular methods of rendering images using animmersion content system according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure. Other sequences of steps may also be performed according toalternative embodiments. For example, alternative embodiments of thepresent disclosure may perform the steps outlined above in a differentorder. Moreover, the individual steps illustrated in the figures abovemay include multiple sub-steps that may be performed in varioussequences as appropriate to the individual step. Furthermore, additionalsteps may be added, or steps may be removed depending on the particularapplications. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize manyvariations, modifications, and alternatives.

Each of the methods described herein may be implemented using one ormore computer systems. Each step of these methods may be executedautomatically by one or the one or more computer systems, and/or may beprovided with inputs/outputs involving a user. For example, a user mayprovide inputs for each step in a method, and each of these inputs maybe in response to a specific output requesting such an input, whereinthe output is generated by the computer system. Each input may bereceived in response to a corresponding requesting output. Furthermore,inputs may be received from a user, from another computer system as adata stream, retrieved from a memory location, retrieved over a network,requested from a web service, and/or the like. Likewise, outputs may beprovided to a user, to another computer system as a data stream, savedin a memory location, sent over a network, provided to a web service,and/or the like. In short, each step of the methods described herein maybe performed by a computer system, and may involve any number of inputs,outputs, and/or requests to and from the computer system which may ormay not involve a user. Those steps not involving a user may be said tobe performed automatically by the computer system without humanintervention. Therefore, it will be understood in light of thisdisclosure, that each step of each method described herein may bealtered to include an input and output to and from a user, or may bedone automatically by a computer system without human intervention whereany determinations are made by a processor. Furthermore, someembodiments of each of the methods described herein may be implementedas a set of instructions stored on a tangible, non-transitory storagemedium to form a tangible software product.

V. Computer System

FIG. 8 shows a block diagram of computer system 1000 that is anexemplary embodiment of the processor 102 and can be used to implementmethods and processes disclosed herein. FIG. 8 is merely illustrative.Computer system 1000 may include familiar computer components, such asone or more one or more data processors or central processing units(CPUs) 1005, one or more graphics processors or graphical processingunits (GPUs) 1010, memory subsystem 1015, storage subsystem 1020, one ormore input/output (I/O) interfaces 1025, communications interface 1030,or the like. Computer system 1000 can include system bus 1035interconnecting the above components and providing functionality, suchconnectivity and inter-device communication.

The one or more data processors or central processing units (CPUs) 1005execute program code to implement the processes described herein. Theone or more graphics processor or graphical processing units (GPUs) 1010execute logic or program code associated with graphics or for providinggraphics-specific functionality. Memory subsystem 1015 can storeinformation, e.g., using machine-readable articles, information storagedevices, or computer-readable storage media. Storage subsystem 1020 canalso store information using machine-readable articles, informationstorage devices, or computer-readable storage media. Storage subsystem1020 may store information using storage media 1045 that can be anydesired storage media.

The one or more input/output (I/O) interfaces 1025 can perform I/Ooperations and the one or more output devices 1055 can outputinformation to one or more destinations for computer system 1000. One ormore input devices 1050 and/or one or more output devices 1055 may becommunicatively coupled to the one or more I/O interfaces 1025. The oneor more input devices 1050 can receive information from one or moresources for computer system 1000. The one or more output devices 1055may allow a user of computer system 1000 to view objects, icons, text,user interface widgets, or other user interface elements.

Communications interface 1030 can perform communications operations,including sending and receiving data. Communications interface 1030 maybe coupled to communications network/external bus 1060, such as acomputer network, a USB hub, or the like. A computer system can includea plurality of the same components or subsystems, e.g., connectedtogether by communications interface 1030 or by an internal interface.

Computer system 1000 may also include one or more applications (e.g.,software components or functions) to be executed by a processor toexecute, perform, or otherwise implement techniques disclosed herein.These applications may be embodied as data and program code 1040. Suchapplications may also be encoded and transmitted using carrier signalsadapted for transmission via wired, optical, and/or wireless networksconforming to a variety of protocols, including the Internet.

The above description of exemplary embodiments of the invention has beenpresented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise formdescribed, and many modifications and variations are possible in lightof the teaching above. The embodiments were chosen and described inorder to best explain the principles of the invention and its practicalapplications to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilizethe invention in various embodiments and with various modifications asare suited to the particular use contemplated.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for delivery of a narrative, the systemcomprising: a passenger vehicle comprising a plurality of passengerlocations; a content presentation system configured to present a virtualportion of a narrative viewable from the plurality of passengerlocations; a transceiver configured to transmit a trigger signal; and atleast one processor configured to: control delivery of the virtualportion of the narrative via the content presentation system; detect apresence of a non-ride device possessed by a rider of the passengervehicle; receive a self-describing signal from the non-ride device; anddeliver a trigger signal via the transceiver to the non-ride device, thetrigger signal linked with the narrative, wherein the trigger signal isconfigured to direct the non-ride device to deliver a narrativeconsistent response.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least oneprocessor is further configured to determine an attribute of thenon-ride device based at least in part of the self-describing signalreceived from the non-ride device.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein theattribute of the non-ride device is based on experience data.
 4. Thesystem of claim 3, wherein the experience data is linked with a locationand a time.
 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the trigger signal isbased, at least in part on the attribute of the non-ride device.
 6. Thesystem of claim 5, wherein the at least one processor is furtherconfigured to modify the narrative based on at least one of: thepresence of the non-ride device; and the experience data of the non-ridedevice.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the trigger signal directs thenon-ride device to react to an event in the narrative.
 8. The system ofclaim 7, wherein the event in the narrative comprises the presence of acharacter.
 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the trigger signal directsthe non-ride device to provide assistance to a possessor of the non-ridedevice.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein providing assistance to thepossessor of the non-ride device comprises: determining at least onedesired action of the possessor of the non-ride device; and providinginformation via the non-ride device facilitating the at least onedesired action.
 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the trigger signaldirects a specific reaction by the non-ride device.
 12. The system ofclaim 10, wherein the trigger signal directs one of a class of reactionsby the non-ride device.
 13. A method for narrative delivery, the methodcomprising: controlling delivery of a virtual portion of the narrativevia a content presentation system, the virtual portion of the narrativeperceivable from a passenger location within a passenger vehicle;detecting a presence of a non-ride device in the passenger vehiclepossessed by a rider of the passenger vehicle; receiving aself-describing signal from the non-ride device; delivering a triggersignal to the non-ride device, the trigger signal directing a narrativeconsistent action of the non-ride device, and wherein the trigger signalis linked with the narrative.
 14. The method of claim 13, furthercomprising determining an attribute of the non-ride device based atleast in part of the self-describing signal received from the non-ridedevice.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein determining the attribute ofthe non-ride device comprises receiving data from the non-ride device.16. The method of claim 15, wherein the attribute of the non-ride deviceis based on experience data.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein theexperience data characterizes experiences of the non-ride device and islocation linked and time linked.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein thetrigger signal is based, at least in part on the attribute of thenon-ride device.
 19. The method of claim 18, further comprisingmodifying the narrative based on at least one of: the presence of thenon-ride device; and the experience data of the non-ride device.
 20. Themethod of claim 19, wherein the trigger signal directs the non-ridedevice to react to an event in the narrative.
 21. The method of claim20, wherein the event in the narrative comprises the presence of acharacter.
 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the character comprises avirtual character.
 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the triggersignal directs the non-ride device to provide assistance to a possessorof the non-ride device.
 24. The method of claim 23, wherein providingassistance to the possessor of the non-ride device comprises:determining at least one desired action of the possessor of the non-ridedevice; and providing information via the non-ride device facilitatingthe at least one desired action.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein thetrigger signal directs a specific reaction by the non-ride device. 26.The method of claim 24, wherein the trigger signal directs one of aclass of reactions by the non-ride device.